Despite being the body’s largest organ, many people ignore the health of their skin. As a barrier protecting the rest of our body from the outside world, skin has an important role in our overall health. External signs and symptoms on the skin are often the first indicators of something wrong on the inside. This means that taking care of the skin isn’t just about looking good; it can also help improve overall health outcomes. The team at Affiliated Dermatology is here to help you understand the benefits of visiting a dermatologist, common conditions that patients see us for, how to recognize them, and when to seek help from a medical professional.
One of the common misconceptions about dermatologists is that patients with serious skin issues only need their services. But actually, annual skin exams are essential for effective skin cancer prevention. Whether or not you have a history of skin cancer, early detection is your best defense.
You certainly should consider visiting a dermatologist if you’ve noticed any of the symptoms below, and should make an appointment sooner rather than later:
One of the most common questions we receive is, “Do you need to go to the dermatologist if you don’t have skin problems?”
The answer is yes; even someone with apparently healthy skin should have regular check-ups with a dermatologist. There are many benefits to seeing a dermatologist, most of which can be useful even to an individual with a flawless, youthful complexion.
Many people wonder when they should first see a dermatologist. Is there a certain age at which one should regularly visit the dermatologist? If so, what age should you see a dermatologist? The answer depends on the condition, though it’s generally a good idea for people of all ages to get regular check-ups. Affiliated Dermatology treats people of all ages for a variety of conditions. We’ve compiled this guide of common conditions and the ages at which they typically start to provide some general guidelines for you.
Whether for routine checkups or to address specific skin concerns, visiting a dermatologist can be beneficial at any age. However, certain skin conditions are more likely to impact people at different stages of their life. Below are some common conditions and why you might want to see a dermatologist.
Suppose you find yourself experiencing any of the conditions listed above. In that case, the team of experts at Affiliated Dermatology is ready to help you find the cause and relieve you. To book an appointment, you can contact us or text (480) 405-3877.
Rosacea typically begins any time after age 30. The condition is redness on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Some symptoms may flare up for a few weeks and then go away for a while before reappearing. It’s time to call a dermatologist when you notice persistent redness on your skin or if small, red, pus-filled bumps appear. There is no cure for rosacea, but early diagnosis and treatment can control the symptoms and prevent it from worsening.
It can be difficult to know when to see a dermatologist for a mole. These are extremely common skin conditions that nearly everyone has. Regular skin checks are recommended for people of all ages but are particularly important as you enter adulthood. A dermatologist can check any moles on your body for signs of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Those with a family history of skin cancer should go earlier.
Warts can occur at any age but are more common in children and teenagers. This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems. Whatever age they occur, a dermatologist can offer treatments to remove them.
As there are many possible causes of skin discoloration, this category of skin condition can impact people of any age. Skin discoloration refers to dark spots or light patches that appear on the skin. Sun damage or underlying health issues can be a cause. As people age, the likelihood of skin discoloration increases; these “age spots” are common in the elderly. A dermatologist can determine the cause of skin discoloration and recommend appropriate treatments. These include topical products, laser therapy, or other procedures.
Like skin discoloration, rashes can occur at any age. Infants are well-known for suffering from diaper rash if care isn’t taken when changing them. In everyone else, rashes can form due to infections, allergic reactions, or chronic skin conditions. If you develop a rash, the first step is to try over-the-counter treatments. These are often sufficient to make the rash go away. If not, it becomes important to see a dermatologist. When you do, they can discover any underlying causes and offer medication or other treatments.
This condition often first appears before age 20, though technically, it can appear at any age. Vitiligo refers to a loss of skin color, typically occurring in blotches. It’s a good idea to see a dermatologist as soon you notice your skin losing pigment. They’ll be able to offer treatments that help reduce the progression of vitiligo and help you deal with cosmetic concerns.
Allergic reactions and skin allergies can happen at any age. The key here is less about age and more about the time of first contact with whatever is causing the reaction. Seeing a dermatologist as soon as a reaction occurs will make narrowing down the cause easier. Dermatologists use patch tests to track down the allergen and recommend treatments.
At the bare minimum, you should see a dermatologist at least once per year.
Aside from keeping your skin looking and feeling its best, your dermatologist serves an important role in reducing your risk of serious skin cancer. Regular skin exams are key for prevention and early detection, even if you have no personal or family history of skin cancer.
It may be best to schedule more frequent visits if you have fair skin, a history of skin cancer in yourself or close family members, or any suspicious moles or growths.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, especially if they have progressed to the point they’re impacting your quality of life, contact a dermatologist today. Affiliated Dermatology has a staff of expert medical professionals who can help you understand your condition and provide you with treatment options. Contact us for more information or to make an appointment.
Image Source: JLco – Julia Amaral / GettyImages
Not Ready to book an appointment yet? Fill out the form below to get more information on how to get great skin for the new year!
